When City take on Adelaide this Sunday night, two of the competition’s most prolific midfields will go head-to-head. Ahead of the match, we take a look at the key numbers between two defensive midfielders, Kearyn Baccus and Isaias.
Both Kearyn Baccus and Isaias have played instrumental roles for their respective teams this season. Sitting just in front of the back four, they’ve both controlled the midfield and supported their defensive teammates.
While Isaias has played an important role for Adelaide since he joined the club in 2013, Baccus has wasted no time making a name for himself in City blue.
Since joining the Club at the beginning of the season, the defensive midfielder has established himself as one of City’s most consistent performers, starting in every league match this season. His tackling ability combined with his accuracy by foot has played an important role for Head Coach Warren Joyce’s side this season.
In opposition colours, Adelaide captain Isaias has yet again displayed his high level of consistency. The defensive midfielder not only fulfils his defensive role well, but his creativity allows him to move further up the field and create chances for his teammates.
With both players making seven starts from seven matches this season, we take a look at their key numbers in the season to date.
As midfielders, distribution is key, and it’s in this area that Baccus excels. The City midfielder currently averages an impressive 86 per cent pass accuracy, which includes 83.3 per cent pass accuracy in the opponents’ half. In comparison, Isaias currently averages 83.7 per cent pass accuracy, which includes a pass accuracy percentage of 70.1 per cent in the opposition’s half.
When it comes to successful dribbles, the Reds man edges out his City counterpart, completing 12 successful dribbles – five more than Baccus.
In terms of the defensive side of the game, both players play an anchoring role in front of the back four, making tackles and breaking down attacking plays. So far this season, Baccus has won 20 tackles, 10 more than Isaias. He has also made 14 interceptions, nine more than Isaias, demonstrating his ability to read the play ahead of him. In contract, Isaias has made more blocks and more clearances.
As vital members of their respective teams this season, there is no doubt that both players will be looking to have an influence on Sunday night’s proceedings, whether that be through their distribution or their defensive qualities.
With a top-four spot on offer, we are set for a thriller at Coopers Stadium on Sunday 16 December, kick-off 7:00pm (AEDT). Following their Round 8 clash in Adelaide, City return to Melbourne to host the Christmas Derby on Saturday 22 December, kick-off 7:50pm (AEDT).
